Pile Knot Rug

Fouzia Akallouf

Born in 1997, Fouzia is one of the youngest members of the Talsint Handicraft Association. Fouzia studied until fifth grade when her parents pulled her out of school to help at home. She learned the craft of basket making and weaving at home from her mother. This is Fouzia’s first time being part of an association, with the money from her basket sales she has purchased a tablet and new clothes. Fouzia hopes to further develop her creative capabilities as a way to generate a secure income and to help continue the tradition of craft in her region. A dream of Fouzia’s is to someday finish her studies.

Maimouna Bourchok

Born in 1989 in Beni Tadjite. Maimouna relocated to Talsint when she married her husband. Maimouna studied until the sixth grade and then married young. Maimouna has one daughter. She learned to make baskets and to weave at home when she was young. Maimouna would some day like to finish her studies and hopes that her daughter will do so and not marry young. With the profits from her basket sales Maimouna purchases items for her daughter and things for the home. She likes that her work not only preserves the artisan traditions of her region and culture but that it enables her to improve her life.

Fatima Ibadissen

Born in 1984 in Talsint, Fatima completed most of her high school education. She is married and has a daughter and son. Growing up Fatima worked with her mother on rugs but she learned how to make baskets through her time working with the association. Her craftsmanship and design have steadily improved over time and she is one of the association’s highest sellers. Fatima attends the local women’s center where she has learned how to sew and crochet. With her basket earnings she aspires to build a better life for her children.